look to

To plan or aim to do something, or seem ready or likely to do it.

• We are looking to hire more staff.
• The company looked to expand into new markets.
• Are you looking to move soon?

How to use it: look to do something (We are looking to buy a larger house.)

Similar words: aim, intend, plan

Common phrases: look to expand, look to improve

To expect help, advice, support, or ideas from someone or something.

• Children look to adults for help.
• She looked to her friends for support.
• Who do you look to when you need advice?

How to use it: look to someone for something (We look to our teacher for guidance.); look to someone to do something (The team looks to its captain to make decisions.)

Similar words: turn to, rely on

Common phrases: look to someone, look to experts

To turn your eyes in a particular direction.

• Look to your left.
• She looked to the sky for signs of rain.
• We looked to the far side of the field.

How to use it: look to something (Look to the east to see the sunrise.)

Common phrases: look to the left, look to the sky

To deal with something and make sure it is properly cared for.

• Look to your own health first.
• The manager looked to the needs of the staff.
• Who will look to these urgent repairs?

How to use it: look to something (You must look to the safety of your guests.)

Similar words: attend to, take care of

Opposites: neglect

Common phrases: look to something, look to repairs